It seems only fitting to celebrate this black history month by honoring the most unique golf course with the longest historical setting for African American golfers. This course is no doubt Chester L. Washington (formerly known as Western Ave). Chester L. Washington golf course was named after the former publisher of the L.A. SENTINEL NEWSPAPER, and has enough history that you would think its reputation is global.

For starters, the late and great Bill Spiller was one of the many legendary golfers to play and hang out at the course. Word has it that Bill, Mr. Spiller, was awsome. Charlie sifford, alegend in his own right, commented about the late Bill Spiller: "He was a great golfer-one of the best, black or white". Bill Spiller was good enough to shoot a 68 and tie Ben Hogan for second place after the first round of the 1948 L.A. Open (one of the few tournaments in the 40's and 50's that ignored the PGA's ban on blacks). The legends at Chester start with a host of great golfers, including Mr. Teddy "Sweet Swing" Rhodes, Madison Gunter, Lee Elder, Charlie Sifford, Calvin Peete and the list goes on.... Chester L. Washington Golf Course has been known to attract great golfers as well as celebrities. Joe Louis was a regular who was seen with Teddy Rhodes as his playing partner on occasion.

The key element in understanding what made Chester L. Washington (Western Ave.) one of the most unique courses, with a historical and spiritual setting for African American golfers, is to look at the support of Ms. Maggie Hathaway. Maggie has done more for the game than most. She has been a true supporter of the game of golf and a longtime activist for the community. Maggie helped break the color barrier on Los Angeles public golf courses. Maggie's tremendous support was recently honored when the Jack Thompson golf course in Los Angeles was renamed after her. If you are lucky you can catch Maggie holding meetings in the clubhouse or simply assisting a youth to improve his or her swing. Simply look at the sign on the chipping green to get a sense of Maggie's influence. The sign was dedicated by the Jackson 5 in 1972, made possible again by the support of Ms. Maggie Hathaway.

The competition can be tough -really tough-as the most challenging games occur during the week, around the mid-morning hours. Bring your wallet and your putter. Most of the games are the traditional skins, rabbits and squires (If you have to ask what these games are before playing, then you may want to wait!!!!) The advice from the people in the know is to stay away from the words "automatic press " The best way to understand the history of C.L.W. is to sit down with the local legends of golf. Some of today's legends are Freddie Carter, Frank Snow, Alton Duhon, Charlie Lee, Jerry Brunner, Al Rann and Mike Williams. These guys can play and are true golfers with years of experience.

Word has it that Mike Williams, Head Pro, is considering a test of ability by competing at the senior level. Mike is known to dedicate his time by helping to mature and teach the youth programs around Los Angeles. Some of the top high school players of today are known to frequent the course.

When playing the course, watch for the really tough holes. Numbers 7, 9,and 17 are some of the toughest holes in the entire city - bar none! ! If you birdie these holes your payday could be rewarding. What one can say about Chester L. Washington Golf Course is simple - the atmosphere is extremely 'cool' like that. If you are a true golfer and often travel to the area, or happen to live less than three hours away and never witnessed the fun, history or competitive play at Chester L. Washington, then you are missing a great experience. It is a fun and exciting place to play.

Simply show up on the putter green and you could find yourself getting lessons from a host of people that can assist you with your game - hopefully you will cherish the knowledge for a lifetime. Doe or Joe, as they are known, can quickly improve your stoke or reduce your earnings. Take your pick!!!

Since the success of "Tiger Woods" and the upgrades to the course, the atmosphere seems to be busier than ever. There are numerous youth programs practicing regularly, and women's groups seem to be forming in larger numbers. Angle Johnson runs one of the newly formed youth programs. Don't forget about the men's club - it is also competitive and fun!! Only true golfers will be eager to add Chester to the list of courses they have played. On your next business trip or vacation stop to the Los Angeles area, add Chester as your golf destination point. And if you are a low handicap player, ask around for the best game and see if there is an extra opening.

After the round, have a social drink in the clubhouse. This will give you an opportunity to learn more about the history of Chester L. Washington and meet the best players in town. Robin is the popular bartender who quickly remembers your favorite drink. You can also find articles and pictures about the course's history.

There is no telling who you will play with at Chester: celebrities in both sports and entertainment, and several key contacts in different industries, often play the course. Chester L. Washington is partially owned by the American Golf Corporation and a couple of outside partners including Vince Evans, (the ex-Raider and Chicago Bear), Sidney Williams and Edward K. Waters. As you will see, Chester L. Washington is one of the top courses in the city. For more information or to arrange a tee time call 323.756.6975. Chester L.Washington is located on Western Avenue at 120" street.

We hope to continue covering the history of Chester L. Washington, as we plan to add more stories in the future. This is only the beginning of a number of worthy features, personalities, and events from the most unique course for African Americans.